DRIVERS could have to undergo safety training and turn off their engines while waiting for passengers in a proposed overhaul of Colchester's taxi policy.

Colchester Council has launched a consultation on the policy, emphasising public safety, safeguarding children, keeping drivers safe and behaving professionally.

Mandatory safeguarding training is proposed, alongside taking action against drivers with a conviction. A new requirement for drivers to switch off their engines when waiting in one of the borough's air quality management areas is also set to be introduced.

Mike Lilley, (Lab) portfolio holder for planning, public safety and licensing, said: “Taxi firms play an important role in the borough and are a crucial part of our town's transport network.

"It’s important that we work with local firms and regularly review the council’s Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy to ensure our policy reflects the changes in technology, the industry standard remains high and supports public safety.

“I would urge anyone who uses these services or works in the industry to take part in the consultation, as well as businesses, authorities and other organisations.”

This is the first significant review of the Hackney Carriage and Private Hire Licensing Policy since 2007.

The council said it has reviewed and updated the policy to reflect significant changes that new technology has led to across the industry.

Smartphone apps are now increasingly used to book vehicles and cross-border working, where taxis licensed in one district operate in another, is becoming more common.

The policy can be found at www.colchester.gov.uk/licensingconsultation.

Anyone with an interest or involvement in the town's hackney carriage and private hire trade is invited to send their comments to licensingteam@colchester.gov.uk by October 21.